England Head Coach Shaun Wane is hoping his side can complete a 2-0 series victory over Samoa as the sides head to Headingley on Saturday.
Wane’s side kicked off the series last weekend with a 34-18 victory at the Brick Community Stadium. Despite the convincing scoreline, Wane was not fully satisfied with the performance at the time, but says that since watching it back his side performed to a higher standard:
“When I spoke to you lads (the media) on Sunday I wasn’t impressed after the game," Wane said.
“When I’ve watch it back, there was a lot more good things. I was really satisfied. We did a lot of good detail which I was impressed with. I was a lot happier.”
England are no strangers to playing an international game at Headingley. Last season, they completed a 3-0 series success at Headingley as Tonga were defeated 26-4 in the third test.
Wane himself is no stranger to Headingley, with the England boss playing for Leeds in the early 90s.
“I loved it (at Headingley). when I got told to leave Wigan, I was shocked. I didn’t want to leave.
“But when I came here, the way the club looked after me and my wife was outstanding”.
Wane said he is looking forward to returning to AMT Headingley this weekend:
“It was great to end the the Test series here last year.
“It was a really good atmosphere. Which it will be again on Saturday.”
Shaun Wane will be boosted on Saturday by the return of Luke Thompson. Thompson was unavailable for selection last weekend after receiving a one-match suspension during Wigan’ Grand Final victory.
Wane says Thompson will be in the side on Saturday:
“He’s fast-twich, runs hard and has done a great job for Wigan, he will definitely play.
“He would have played on Sunday given half a chance, but it wasn’t to be. He will definitely play; he’s a great player and I love him to pieces.”
England’s second match of the series will follow England Women’s contest with Wales in a double-header at Headingley. The women's game will get underway at 12pm, while Wane’s side will get underway at 2:30pm.
Tickets for the England v Samoa at AMT Headingley are available to buy now at rugby-league.com/tickets with prices from £25 Adults and £12.50 Under 16s.
The new England RL shirt can also be purchased now from Oxen’s Elite Pro Sports online store.
